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This undergraduate Politics program with a Foundation Year at the University of East Anglia provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the core principles, theories, and practices of political science. Designed for those who may not have a traditional academic background in the subject, the Foundation Year aims to equip students with essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed in higher education. Throughout the course, students will explore a wide range of topics including domestic and international politics, government institutions, political ideologies, public policy, and contemporary global issues. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, effective communication, and research techniques, fostering a well-rounded understanding of politics in both historical and modern contexts.
The Foundation Year acts as a stepping stone, gradually preparing students for the rigors of degree-level study by offering tailored support through dedicated teaching and tutorials. Students will engage with a variety of learning methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and group discussions, to develop their academic skills and confidence. The curriculum covers essential areas such as political theory, comparative politics, and international relations, providing a solid foundation for further specialization in later years of the program.
Students will also have the opportunity to develop their writing and research portfolios, enabling them to articulate political concepts effectively and critically analyze different perspectives. The program encourages engagement with current political events and debates, fostering an understanding of the relevance of politics to everyday life. Additionally, students will benefit from the university’s strong links with political organizations, governmental bodies, and research institutes, which can enhance employability and provide networking opportunities.
Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year, students will progress seamlessly into the full Politics degree program, equipped with the necessary academic skills and knowledge to excel in the study of politics. The University of East Anglia’s approach combines academic excellence, practical application, and a supportive learning environment, making it an ideal choice for anyone aspiring to pursue a career in political science, public policy, or related fields. Whether interested in understanding political systems, studying international affairs, or engaging in advocacy and activism, the program provides a solid starting point and pathway to a rewarding career in politics and beyond.
Detailed Course Facts
Application deadline You are advised to apply as early as possible Tuition fee- EUR 10550 Year (EEA)
- EUR 16800 Year (Non-EEA)
UK/EU Students: £9,000. International Students: £14,400
Start date September 2015 Credits (ECTS) 180 ECTSDuration full-time 36 months Languages Take an IELTS test
- English
Course Content
Year 1
Level 0: The Foundation Year is an intensive course where you will study alongside students who aim to progress on to a variety of degree programmes within the Faculty of Arts and Humanities. With an average of 18 guided learning hours per week you will participate in lectures, seminars, reading and study groups, as well as visits to organisations such as the East Anglian Film Archive and the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts. You will also be given individual tutorial support to ensure you are reaching your full potential and are able to progress on to the full honours programme with confidence.
Over the course of the year you will be introduced to a wide range of academic subjects such as literature, history, philosophy, film, television and media, American studies, politics and the history of art. You will gain a foundational knowledge of many of the concepts, methods and techniques you will study in more detail at level 1 and above. In addition, you will develop a wide range of transferable skills in areas such as written and verbal communication, research, collegiality, time-management and language skills which will significantly enhance your employability in the future.
Years 2 and 3
Levels 1 and 2: In your second and third years you will take a mixture of compulsory and optional modules allowing you to develop your understanding of politics as an academic subject. You will also have the option to continue studying the language you selected during semester 1 of the Foundation Year.
Year 4
Level 3: In your final year you will select four optional modules covering a wide range of specialised topics including Political Communication, Politics and Popular Culture and Western Political Thought. You will also have the option to choose a dissertation module where you will have the opportunity to plan, research and undertake a dissertation on a topic of your choice with the guidance of a supervising member of staff.
During the Foundation Year you will be assessed in a variety of ways which will allow you to exercise different learning styles and familiarise yourself with the format and expectations of assessment in Higher Education. There will be a strong emphasis on formative assessment with feedback on drafts of written work and group tutorials which will help you to clearly see how you can improve and develop, enabling you to learn from your peers as well as teaching staff. This in turn will help you to build confidence in your abilities and become a more independent learner.
Your progress will be monitored through individual tutorials to ensure that you are happy on the course and achieving your full potential. You need to achieve a minimum of 40% overall with a pass in all modules in order to progress on to the American Studies programme.
At levels 1, 2 and 3 key issues and ideas are introduced in lectures given by all members of faculty. These are accompanied by more specialist study, undertaken in small groups. You will be assessed at the end of each semester on the basis of coursework, and at the end of each year by coursework. In your final year, you will write a dissertation on a topic of your choice and with the advice of tutors. There is no final examination. Your final degree result is determined by the marks you receive in Years 3 and 4.
English Language Requirements
IELTS band : 6.5 TOEFL iBT® test : 92
To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to
take an IELTS test. More About IELTSRequirements
- A Level:
- International Baccalaureate:
- Scottish Highers:
- Scottish Advanced Highers:
- Irish Leaving Certificate:
- Access Course:
- HND:
- European Baccalaureate:
Students for whom English is a Foreign language
We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum of 6.0 in Reading and Writing and no less than 5.5 in any component)
- TOEFL: Internet-based score of 92 overall (minimum 20 in Speaking component, 19 in Writing, 18 in Listening components and 20 in Reading components.
- PTE: 62 overall (minimum 55 in Reading and Writing and 51 in any component).
If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
Interviews
The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.
Gap Year
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.
Intakes
The School's annual intake is in September of each year.
Alternative Qualifications
If you are studying the BTEC National Diploma please contact us for further information.
We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirements. Please contact us for further information.
GCSE Offer
All applicants are required to have a minimum of 5 GCSE's including GCSE English language and Mathematics (or equivalent) at a minimum of Grade C.
Work Experience
No work experience is required.
Related Scholarships*
- Academic Excellence Scholarship
"The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."
- Access Bursary
Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.
- Alumni Bursary
Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students
* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of East Anglia.
The Politics programme at the University of East Anglia, particularly with a Foundation Year, offers students a comprehensive introduction to the core concepts, theories, and practices of political science. The Foundation Year serves as an essential starting point for students who may not meet the direct entry requirements or need additional preparation to succeed in higher education. During this foundational stage, students develop essential academic skills, including critical thinking, research methods, and written communication, which are vital for advanced study in Politics.
Once the Foundation Year is completed successfully, students progress to the undergraduate degree, where they explore a broad range of topics within political science. The curriculum covers domestic politics, comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and contemporary political issues. The programme emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical analysis, equipping students with the skills to interpret and engage with complex political phenomena.
The university prides itself on fostering an environment of inquiry and debate, with dedicated lecturers who are active researchers in their fields. Students benefit from lectures, seminars, workshops, and access to extensive online resources. The Politics programme also offers opportunities for placements and internships, enabling students to gain practical experience and build professional networks within political organizations, government bodies, and NGOs.
Assessment methods include essays, presentations, exams, and group projects, aimed at developing a diverse skill set suitable for careers in policymaking, journalism, international organizations, and academia. The university provides support services for students, including academic guidance, career advice, and access to research libraries.
Students graduating from the Politics programme at UEA are well-prepared for a range of careers or postgraduate study. The programme encourages critical engagement with current issues such as globalization, human rights, environmental politics, and governance. It aims to produce graduates who are informed, analytical, and capable of contributing thoughtfully to political discourse.
Overall, the Politics (with Foundation Year) programme at the University of East Anglia combines rigorous academic training with practical experience, ensuring students are ready for diverse roles in the political arena or further academic pursuits. The university’s strong reputation, vibrant academic community, and commitment to student success make it an excellent choice for prospective students interested in exploring the complexities of government, policy, and international affairs.